Driving Safely Amid the Extreme Weather of a Changing Climate

As the climate continues to change, the world will witness even more extreme weather patterns. This is particularly true in the Midwest, where they are experiencing hotter summers, increased frequency of heavy downpours, and more rain-freeze events in the winter. These conditions can significantly impact driving safety, and drivers need to be aware of the risks and take steps to stay safe on the road.

In hot weather, heat can cause tires to degrade and roads to buckle. Heavy rains can create hazardous driving conditions, and flash flooding can quickly lead to dangerous situations. In the winter, icy roads and frigid temperatures can create a whole host of challenges.

Given the increased frequency of extreme weather events, it’s more important than ever for drivers to brush up on their adverse weather driving skills. From understanding the effects of severe weather on your vehicle to knowing how to drive in different conditions, here are some tips for driving safely amid the extreme weather of a changing climate.

Check Conditions and Plan Ahead

Before heading out on the road, it’s important to check the weather conditions and forecast. This will help you gauge what to expect and plan accordingly. Consider changing your plans or route if the forecast calls for extreme weather.
Weather is becoming increasingly unpredictable, so it’s also smart to have a backup plan. For example, if you’re driving in an area prone to flash flooding, know alternative routes you can take if you encounter high water. Likewise, for winter weather, plan what to do if you get stranded.

Take Care of Your Vehicle

To help ensure your vehicle is up for the challenge of extreme weather, it’s critical to keep up with regular maintenance. This includes:

• Checking your tire pressure: Underinflated tires can overheat and fail in hot conditions.
• Checking your battery: Cold weather can strain a weak battery, have it tested and, if necessary, replaced before winter hits.
• Inspecting your wipers and fluid: In heavy rains, you’ll want to be able to see, so make sure your wipers are in good condition and that you have plenty of windshield washer fluid.
• Checking your coolant/antifreeze levels: Extreme temperatures can strain your cooling system, so ensure your coolant/antifreeze levels are topped off.
• Ensuring your brakes are in top condition: Wet weather can make it harder to stop, so it’s vital to have good brakes. If your vehicle is due for a brake check, get it done before hitting the road.
• Making sure your lights are in working order: In foggy or snowy conditions, it’s crucial to see and be seen. Check your headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals to ensure they’re in working order.
• Ensuring your air conditioning is in good working order: Air conditioning is a must in hot weather. If your AC isn’t working correctly, get it checked out before heading out.

It’s always a good idea to keep a few supplies in your car, just in case. This could include items like wiper fluid refill, coolant/antifreeze, an ice scraper, and a sunshade. These will come in handy if you find yourself in a difficult situation.

Take Care of Your Vision

Your vision is one of your most essential tools when behind the wheel, so it’s important to take care of your eyesight. However, many Americans have undiagnosed eye conditions or are overdue for eye exams. 1 in 10 Americans has not had an eye exam in five years or more. So, if it’s been a while since you’ve had your vision checked, be sure to schedule an appointment.

Moreover, if you know you have imperfect vision, it’s best to update your prescriptions or consider corrective procedures like LASIK to help you see clearly when driving. With the help of vision-enhancing technologies such as implantable contact lenses, there’s no reason to let poor vision put you at risk on the road.

In Bad Weather, Slow Down and Increase Your Following Distance

Slow down when the weather takes a turn for the worse, and give yourself extra time to react. This means obeying the posted speed limit and driving even slower if necessary. It’s also important to increase your following distance, so you have more time to stop if needed.
Additionally, avoid sudden braking or steering maneuvers, as these can cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Additionally, if possible, avoid driving through puddles or large pools of water, as you never know how deep they may be.

Don’t Drive Through Floodwaters

If you come across a flooded road, the best thing to do is turn around and find an alternate route. It only takes 12 inches of water to float most cars, so it’s not worth the risk.

In addition, just six inches of moving water can knock an adult off their feet, and two feet of water can sweep away most vehicles. So, if you come across a large body of water, it’s best to err on the side of caution.
Likewise, if you are in a situation where your vehicle is surrounded by water, stay calm and call for help. Do not try to get out and swim to safety, as this puts you at risk of being swept away by the current. If you can, park your car in the most elevated position you can find and wait for help to arrive.

Use Low Beams in Fog, Heavy Rain, or Snow

Your high beams may help you see further in poor visibility, but they can hinder your vision. Instead, their shine will reflect off the water or snow, making it harder to see. So, use your low beams instead in fog, heavy rain, or snow.
However, if you find yourself driving in a whiteout, pull over and wait for the weather to improve. Driving in a whiteout is extremely dangerous, as you can easily lose sight of the road.
If in a situation where you need to use your high beams, be sure to dim them when an oncoming car is approaching, as their bright light can cause temporary blindness.

Pull Over When You Need To

Pull over and take a break if you’re fatigued. Drowsy driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving and can lead to accidents. Additionally, if you become stressed or scared while driving, it’s okay to pull over and take a few deep breaths. It’s better to arrive late than not at all.
Similarly, if you’re driving in bad weather and the conditions become too extreme, finding a safe place to pull over and wait out the storm is best. Again, it’s not worth risking your life for the sake of time.
If possible, take a nap or swap drivers so someone else can take over. If you’re driving alone, take breaks every few hours and pull off to the side of the road to walk around and stretch your legs or take a quick nap.

Keep Emergency Supplies in Your Vehicle

Having emergency supplies in your vehicle can be a lifesaver when stranded on the side of the road. Every driver should have the following items in their trunk:

• Spare tire and jack — You never know when you’ll get a flat tire.
• Reflective triangles — These are essential for making your vehicle visible to other drivers, especially at night
• Jumper cables — If your battery dies, jumper cables can help you start your car.
• First-aid kit — A first-aid kit can come in handy if you or a passenger is injured.
• Flashlight and extra batteries — A flashlight can help you see in the dark and signal for help.
• Blanket — A blanket can keep you warm if you have to spend the night in your car.
• Warm coat — A coat can also help keep you warm in cold weather.
• Rain jacket — A rain jacket can help keep you dry if you’re stranded in bad weather.
• Non-perishable food and water — Non-perishable food and water can help sustain you until help arrives.

It’s a good idea to keep your tank at least half full. This way, if you find yourself stranded, you have enough gas to last until help arrives. Additionally, it’s a good idea to keep some extra gas in a gas can in your trunk, just in case. With these items, your chances of making it through an emergency significantly increase.
As weather conditions continue to worsen due to climate change, preparing for any weather event is crucial. Simple measures like these can help you stay safe on the road, no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.